J.P. CHARITY SEES THE EXCEPTIONAL IN THE EVERYDAY

It takes guts to see the potential in an ordinary someone who could become extraordinary.

From the very beginning, we are instructed to be special. Aim for the metaphorical stars, accept nothing less than Olympiad-status, and always be exceptional. However, it can be nearly impossible to reach exceptionality, even when all the potential exists. Many people say “fuck it” and give up, but the few strong-willed survive.

Amy L. Clark, like many, realized this and in 2010 founded Jamaica-Plain charity The Endowment for Unexceptional Humans.

The local organization provides grants and scholarship assistance to individuals or groups with realistic goals.

Scanning endless achievements and medals listed on a résumé is easy; what takes some guts is seeing the potential in an ordinary someone who hasn’t gained the recognition he or she deserves.

The charity gives awards not based on prior performance and success, but instead on that individual’s or group’s plan for the future and drive to make improvements to their lives and the world.

The scholarships and grants “are designed to help those who demonstrate a gap between their potential and their past performance, and who have a plan for closing that gap,” according to The Endowment for Unexceptional Humans’ innovative mission statement. Opportunity alone rarely leads to success, and in most cases a little support can go a long way.

Do you believe in the human potential for excellence? Of course you do, dummy. You read DigBoston, don’t you? I kid, sort-of. But in all seriousness, support this charity and unexceptional beings like yourself (only better) by attending

their “9 Authors 9 Items” benefit reading tomorrow (5.11.12) at 8pm at First Church Somerville.

The benefit will feature nine local authors, each reading a short work about an item that has a special spot inside that warm place we often call a heart. The items will vary from signed books to childhood art projects to gift certificates or services, and will be auctioned off by local auctioneer Lulu Savage. So. Much. Local. (And you know The Dig has an exceptional appreciation and near-worship for local … and awesome charities.)

The local authors attending the benefit are as follows: Hannah Baker-Siroty, Stace Budzko, Christopher Boucher, Sarah Braunstein, Brad Clompus, William Giraldi, Julia Lissella, Micah Nathan, and Cammy Thomas.